Stuff You Should Know Selects: How Sloths Work
Jan 29, 2022
Sloths are more than just slow movers; their sluggishness is tied to their low-energy lifestyle, which helps them dodge predators. The podcast dives into the evolutionary quirks that differentiate two-toed from three-toed sloths while revealing their charming behaviors. Their unique diet and infrequent bathroom habits showcase a fascinating survival strategy. It also highlights the surprising alliances they form with algae and moths that thrive in their fur. Together, these insights paint a captivating picture of sloths and their ecological role.
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Sloth Smiles
- Sloths' cuteness and smile deceive humans.
- Their "smile" results from facial color patterns, not actual muscle movements.
Sloth Success and Xenarthra
- Sloths have flourished for millions of years, evolving in isolated South America.
- They belong to the Xenarthra group, which also contains anteaters and armadillos.
Types of Sloths
- Two sloth types exist: two-toed (Choloepus) and three-toed (Bradypus).
- The three-toed sloth has a misleading name, as the two-toed also has three toes but only two fingers.